OBC Quota In Panchayat Polls: Odisha BJP To Take Signature Campaign To Block Level

Bhubaneswar: Continuing its tirade against the state government for depriving the OBCs of participating in panchayat elections by not taking any step for their reservation, the BJP has decided to take its fight to block level in coming days.

President of Odisha BJP OBC Morcha Surath Biswal, in a release, said the government has been neglecting the people belonging to other backward classes (OBCs) for its vested interests. He blamed the anti-OBC policy of the government for depriving the people of their constitutional rights on the plea of High Court order.

While there was 27% reservation for OBCs, who comprise more than 54% of the state’s population, in the previous 5 elections, Biswal questioned why the government has not made any provision this time.

Stating that the governments of other states like Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra  facing similar situation have moved the Supreme Court, he said it is a matter of grave concern that Odisha government remains complacent on the matter.

Detailing the BJP’s plans on intensifying the agitation for ensuring the constitutional rights of the OBCs, Biswal said they would launch a signature campaign. “We will  stage demonstration before the collectorates and block offices in all districts and collect signatures of the people supporting OBC quota till January 8.”

Stating that the BJP will submit signatures of over 5 lakh people to the Governor to put pressure on the government, he said it will move other fora till the OBCs are granted their rights.